Who said going out in LA is just for date nights? As much as you might love your bae, let’s be real; having time with your friends to catch up on each others’ lives is super important. And of course, you want to find a place that’s cute, fun, serves good food, and has plenty of booze. Here are some of our recent faves for a meal with the girls:
Read MoreSanta Monica already has a plethora of brunch options. Who wouldn't want to spend their weekend morning/afternoon eating yummy food by the beach? So restaurants entering this crowded space need to have something special to really stand out. Luckily, Native has Chef Nyesha Arrington. The former Top Chef contestant received a slew of accolades when she helmed the kitchen at Leona, where she infused her own background and classic techniques into the California cuisine. At Native, she's working with similar flavors, taking cues from her Korean grandmother to create dishes like Kimchi Latkes, while offering California-focused fare like the breakfast burrito. It's an eclectic and tasty spot for brunch-- and did we mention there's also an extensive brunch cocktail menu?
Read MoreIn this next installment of Keeping Up With Local Restaurant Openings, we've got 5 new(ish) spots serving up everything from all-day brunch to happy hour to a new dinner spot on Robertson. Check them out this week!
Read MoreIt's always a sad affair when any restaurant closes, but when that restaurant was local favorite Terrine, it's an especially tough loss. The 2-year old space officially shuttered New Years, but quickly flipped into The Ponte, a new concept for Chopped judge and former Scarpetta chef Scott Conant, who's bringing some Italian flare to this former French brasserie. In addition to the menu, restaurateur Stephane Bombet also flipped the space, ushering in a mid-century modern look with serious Mad Men vibes. But don't worry; they haven't done away with the beautiful back patio (they would be crazy to), remaining one of the best outdoor dining choices in the city. We popped in for brunch recently, and enjoyed their Italian take on standard brunch fare in addition to some classic Conant offerings (the Pasta al Pomodoro is his signature).
Read MoreOne of the most anticipated openings of 2015, Otium has been an ambitious addition to The Broad Museum and Downtown LA’s dining scene in general. Its beautiful combination of large contemporary glass walls and rustic woodsy interior had made it a hot place for modern fusion foods done with an exquisite twist. Not to mention, the restaurant is overseen by none other than renowned chef Tim Hollingsworth. Together with the neighboring Broad Museum, Otium is an idyllic restaurant for those who wish for a special art and dining experience.
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